Things To Avoid While Showing Your Hog

1. The pig should not be dirty. Your goal is for your pig to be the cleanest pig in the show ring, the one that stands out to the judge.

2. Do not use sprays or oils. Sprays and oils tend to keep the animal’s body heat confined within body and therefore the pig is more prone to heat stress. You simply only need to use water.

3. Wearing a hat or inappropriate shoes (sandals, etc.)

4. Inappropriate clothing

5. Improper use of cane, whip, brush, etc. Remember the only area on the hog’s body that you should be tapping with the cane is the jowl (neck area). Avoid hitting the pig anywhere else, especially on the back or in the ham.

6. DO NOT place your hands on the hog!

7. Don’t crowd the judge with your pig. Also, do not let your hog touch the judge. The pig should be kept in an open area about 10-15 feet from judge, never in a crowded area. Avoid side rails and places where the judge will not see you.

8. DO NOT let your hog lay down. If it does, get the hog to stand up and continue to show the hog.
 

Showmanship Tips

Bring your pig into the ring promptly. It makes an impression on the judge when you are one of the first ones in the ring. DON’T BE LAST! Plan ahead and make sure you know when you are going into the ring and have someone assisting you with the hog.

Good show people are not distracted by persons and things outside of the ring. Your focus should be on keeping your hog moving and clean for the judge and watching the judge. You only get one chance to show your hog, make it worthwhile!

Shows the animal, not self. Also you should not be talking to any of the exhibitors in the ring. The only people you should be talking to in the ring are the judge and the people helping in the ring.

Demonstrates knowledge of their project and can answer questions about their project.
 

Please remember we are more than happy to answer your questions at anytime!